The Porsche Cayman S (as it was originally named) first debuted for the 2006 model year as a more affordable hardtop option for Porsche buyers that already adored the. midengine Porsche Boxster, which appeared in the 1990s and was (and still isn't) available in a hard-top variant. The Cayman S was a huge hit, and it remains one of Porsche's most popular models to-date. The Cayman S is based on the second-generation of the Boxster and shares a large portion of its mechanical components with that vehicle. Its sheet metal is unique, however. The Cayman draws its name from an alligator that lives in South and Central America.

Expert Ratings

Performance

Currently 4.75/5

Reliability

Currently 4.40/5

Appearance

Currently 4.56/5

Comfort

Currently 5.00/5

Overall

Currently 4.68/5

ReviewitOnline Ratings are based on a number of factors including reputation, appearance, model age, engine & other comparative aspects.

The Porsche Cayman R was first introduced in 2011 and is known for its excellent handling, fantastic ride, and its two great engine choices. After review, we can say that all of the above hold true, though we do have some small issues with the Cayman R. The coupe is pricier than many of its competitors, especially when extra options and packages are added. We also think the S coupe could handle a bit more power on its well-balanced chassis (although a small boost is given in the Cayman R). Overall, after review, the Cayman comes with superb performance, a large dose of prestige, and a high degree of driver interaction, and the Cayman R coupe only adds to these positive attributes.

For the 2012 model year, the Porsche Cayman comes in several variants: base trim, S trim, R trim, and the Black Edition trim. The Black Edition is new for the 2012 model year, and it's also available for the Porsche Boxster S coupe. The sporty Porsche R, however, is the vehicle under review here; It starts at $66,300 and It features a 3.4-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 330 horsepower. Top speed is around 170 mph, and it's a much lighter, stripped-down version of the Porsche Cayman and Cayman S. The R coupe gets from zero-to-sixty in only four seconds. The Cayman R's specialty is driving fast on winding roads, though it can survive a daily commute as well.

The coupe comes with many of the standard features seen in the Porsche Cayman S- such as a 3.4-liter flat 6-cylinder engine, a sport steering wheel(featuring PDK or not), lightweight sport seats, interior trim that matches the exterior paint job, and an additional ten horsepower. The air conditioner and several trim pieces have been removed so that the vehicle can achieve more impressive handling, though it can be added back. Most of the standard Cayman's options are available for this Cayman variant, but the Bose audio system and other luxury features like ventilated seats are not. The R coupe also features a limited-slip rear differential, nineteen-inch wheels, and a lowered sport-tuned suspension.